What term is used for any item obtained from a third party and paid for by the funeral provider on the purchaser's behalf?

The term "cash advance items" refers to those items that a funeral provider purchases from a third party on behalf of the client, with the understanding that the cost will be reimbursed by the client. This usually includes expenses for services or products such as death certificates, cemetery fees, or flower arrangements that are necessary for the funeral process but are provided by a vendor external to the funeral home.

Understanding this concept is important in the funeral industry, as it emphasizes transparency regarding costs involved in funeral arrangements. It ensures that the customer is aware that these additional expenses will be added to their total bill. Unlike service fees, which are typically the charges for the services the funeral home provides directly, cash advance items highlight the third-party nature of these expenses. This distinction helps clients understand their financial responsibilities more clearly when planning a funeral service.